Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection: an analysis of current management strategies in a single institution

Numerical modeling assisting in surgical treatment of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection in children

Objective

To develop a model using patient-specific computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to predict the required anastomotic size for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) surgery and to forecast surgical outcomes.

Methods

Based on clinical data from patients, a CFD model was used to simulate the anastomosis between pulmonary venous confluence and the left atrium. Blood flow velocity, wall shear stress, power loss, and pressure were calculated using numerical algorithms within the model. Various sizes of anastomosis were applied during the simulation. The energy dissipation at the anastomosis was computed from the results and compared with real-world data.

Results

As the simulated anastomotic size increased, blood flow velocity, pulmonary venous pressure, and energy loss decreased. However, when the anastomotic size exceeded 18 mm, the efficiency of energy conversion no longer improved. The realistic and simulated velocities matched well for anastomosis sizes ranging from 15 to 20 mm.

Conclusion

The model can assist surgeons in preoperative planning for determining the anastomotic size in TAPVC surgical treatment.

Successful surgical repair of isolated supra-cardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) with venous confluence stenosis using dual anastomosis: a case report from Syria

We present the case of a 7-month-old female infant with a history of recurrent respiratory infections and symptoms of respiratory distress during feeding. Echocardiography isolated revealed supracardiac-type total anomalous pulmonary venous connection with a large ostium secundum atrial septal defect and severe pulmonary hypertension. Computed tomographic angiography confirmed the diagnosis and identified stenosis at the level of the venous confluence. The surgical intervention involved a novel approach using dual anastomoses between the pulmonary venous confluence and the left atrium, alongside atrial septal defect repair with a bovine pericardial patch. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with successful weaning from mechanical ventilation on Day 9 and discharge on Day 12. The patient showed optimal venous drainage and hemodynamic stability, indicating a successful surgical outcome. This case highlights the importance of early surgical intervention in total anomalous pulmonary venous connection with complex anatomical presentations.

Assessing the risk of reoperation for mild pulmonary vein obstruction post-TAPVC repair: a retrospective cohort study

Objective

This study investigates the impact of mild pulmonary vein obstruction, detected via echocardiography before hospital discharge, on the likelihood of reoperation in patients who have undergone repair for Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC).

Method

Utilizing a single-center, retrospective cohort approach, we analyzed 38 cases from October 2017 to December 2023, excluding patients with functionally univentricular circulations or atrial isomerism. Our primary outcome was the necessity for reoperation within one year due to anatomical issues related to the initial TAPVC repair. Mild obstruction was defined as a pulmonary vein flow velocity ≥1.2 m/s.

Result

Our findings revealed that 31.6% of patients exhibited pre-discharge mild obstruction. During the median follow-up of 10 months, reoperations were notably higher in the mild obstruction group compared to the normal group, with a significant association between pre-discharge mild obstruction and increased risk of reoperation. Specifically, in the fully adjusted model, mild obstruction was linked to a 13.9-fold increased risk of reoperation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a pre-discharge echocardiography Doppler velocity threshold of 1.2 m/s could serve as a critical predictor for reoperation, emphasizing the need for targeted follow-up strategies for at-risk patients.

Contemporary outcomes for functional single ventricle with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

OBJECTIVE

In 2004, we reported improved early survival for patients with functional single ventricle anatomy and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. This study sought to discover if outcomes have been ameliorated in the contemporary era.

METHODS

This was a single-center review of patients with single ventricle anatomy and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection who were admitted from 1984 to 2021. The cohort was divided into similarly sized groups by date of admission: Era 1: 1984 to 1992, Era 2: 1993 to 2007, and Era 3: 2008 to 2021. Survival was compared, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the likelihood of mortality.

RESULTS

We included 190 patients with single ventricle anatomy and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Unbalanced atrioventricular canal defect (70%) was the most common primary diagnosis. The most common type of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection was supracardiac (49%). Approximately one-third (32%) of patients had pulmonary venous obstruction. There were no significant differences in patient characteristics across eras. Early survival after initial palliative operation improved between Eras 1 and 2, and then remained stable in Era 3. Overall survival improved from Era 1 to Eras 2 and 3 (P < .001), but not between Era 2 and 3. Survival to 10 years by Eras 1 to 3 was 15%, 51%, and 54%, respectively. The anatomic features associated with worse survival were hypoplastic left heart syndrome diagnosis (hazard ratio, 1.60; 1.04-2.57) and pulmonary venous obstruction (hazard ratio, 1.80; 1.24-2.69).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall survival for patients with single ventricle anatomy and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection has plateaued since the early 2000s. Even in the most recent era, survival to age 10 years remains less than 60%. Risk factors for mortality include the diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome and pulmonary venous obstruction. Further studies should focus on identification of the pathophysiological factors underlying the increased mortality.

Insight into the research history and trends of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection: a bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is a rare congenital heart disease characterized by the inability of all pulmonary veins to connect to the left atrium. Our previous bibliometric article summarized the characteristics of only the 100 most cited papers in TAPVC research. The purpose of this study was to use comprehensive bibliometric analysis to examine the development history, current status, and future trends in the field of TAPVC.

METHODS

All publications on TAPVC published between 2000 and 2023 were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection. The publication and citation data were quantitatively analyzed by publication year, country, institution, author, and journal. Co-authorship and co-occurrence analyses were performed using VOSviewer, and keyword and reference bursts were identified using CiteSpace. Pearson's test was used to examine the correlations between two continuous variables.

RESULTS

As of July 20, 2023, we identified 368 publications with 3320 citations. These publications were published in 132 journals and authored by 1835 researchers from 457 institutions in 47 countries. For the number of publications, the top country, top institution, top author, and top journals were the United States (n = 82), Shanghai Jiao Tong University (n = 13), Huiwen Chen (n = 9), and Annals of Thoracic Surgery and Pediatric Cardiology (n = 29 each), respectively. For the number of citations, the top country, top affiliation, top author, and top journal were the United States (n = 1348), University of Toronto (n = 250), Christopher A. Caldarone (n = 315), and Annals of Thoracic Surgery (n = 746), respectively. The number of national publications significantly correlated with GDP (R = 0.887, P < 0.001), research & development (R&D) expenditure (R = 0.375, P = 0.013), population (R = 0.694, P < 0.001), and journals (R = 0.751, P < 0.001). The number of national citations significantly correlated with GDP (R = 0.881, P < 0.001), R&D expenditure (R = 0.446, P = 0.003), population (R = 0.305, P = 0.037), and journals (R = 0.917, P < 0.001). International collaboration in the field of TAPVC was not well developed. The most commonly cited publication discussed era changes in mortality and reoperation rate in TAPVC patients. The most common keywords were "total anomalous pulmonary venous connection" and "congenital heart disease". The keyword "case report" appeared most recently, with an average occurrence year of 2021.8. The co-occurrence analysis grouped 26 keywords into six themes: surgical repair of TAPVC, postoperative pulmonary vein stenosis, surgical repair of TAPVC patients with heterotaxy, application of echocardiography in diagnosing TAPVC, application of echocardiography in the prenatal diagnosis of TAPVC, and application of the sutureless technique in the surgical repair of TAPVC patients with right atrial isomerism or a single ventricle. Citation burst detection identified 32 references with citation bursts, seven of which had ongoing citation bursts until 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

This study conducted a bibliometric analysis to provide a comprehensive overview of TAPVC research. We hope to offer new ideas for promoting development in the field of TAPVC.

Sutureless Repair of Extracardiac Univentricular Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the results of sutureless repair of extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) with a functional single ventricle at a single institution, including changes in the anastomotic site over time.

METHODS

The database contained 98 patients with single-ventricle anatomy who underwent extracardiac TAPVC repair from 1996 to 2022. The median age and body weight at surgery were 59 days and 3.8 kg, respectively. Eighty-seven patients had heterotaxy syndrome, and 42 had preoperatively obstructed TAPVC. Primary sutureless repair was performed in 18 patients, 13 of whom were neonates. The cross-sectional area of the anastomotic site of the atrium and pericardium was divided by the body surface area, and the changes in this value over time were assessed. The median follow-up was 5.2 years (range, 0-19.4 years).

RESULTS

Operative mortality and late mortality occurred in 2 (2.0%) and 38 (38.8%) patients, respectively. The actuarial survival rate at 5 years postoperatively was 56.2%. Multivariate analysis identified preoperatively obstructed TAPVC as a risk factor for mortality. Recurrent pulmonary venous stenosis (PVS) developed in 25 patients, thus giving a 5-year rate of freedom from PVS of 64.9%. Multivariate analysis revealed that sutureless repair significantly decreased the incidence of recurrent PVS. The cross-sectional anastomotic area tended to grow in accordance with the patients' growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Sutureless repair of extracardiac TAPVC with univentricular anatomy achieved acceptable results. The anastomotic site tended to grow over time and contributed to a decline in the rate of recurrent PVS.

Replacement of pulmonary venous stent during Fontan operation

Post-operative pulmonary venous stenosis is a poor prognostic factor in single-ventricle haemodynamics. Implantation of a drug-eluting stent is a therapeutic option. However, due to their small size, they inevitably become inadequate as the patient grows. We present the first case, to the best of our knowledge, of the replacement of a small-diameter stent with a large-diameter stent during Fontan surgery.

Reintervention and mortality risk after total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair

BACKGROUND

Management of total anomalous pulmonary venous connections has been extensively studied to further improve outcomes. Our institution previously reported factors associated with mortality, recurrent obstruction, and reintervention. The study purpose was to revisit the cohort of patients and evaluate factors associated with reintervention, and mortality in early and late follow-up.

METHODS

A retrospective review at our institution identified 81 patients undergoing total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair from January 2002 to January 2018. Demographic and operative variables were evaluated. Anastomotic reintervention (interventional or surgical) and/or mortality were primary endpoints.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients met the study criteria. Follow-up ranged from 0 to 6,291 days (17.2 years), a mean of 1263 days (3.5 years). Surgical mortality was 16.1% and reintervention rates were 19.8%. In re-interventions performed, 80% occurred within 1.2 years, while 94% of mortalities were within 4.1 months. Increasing cardiopulmonary bypass times (p = 0.0001) and the presence of obstruction at the time of surgery (p = 0.025) were predictors of mortality, while intracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection type (p = 0.033) was protective. Risk of reintervention was higher with increasing cardiopulmonary bypass times (p = 0.015), single ventricle anatomy (p = 0.02), and a post-repair gradient >2 mmHg on transesophageal echocardiogram (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of a larger cohort with longer follow-up demonstrated the relationship of anatomic complexity and symptoms at presentation to increased mortality risk after total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair. The presence of a single ventricle or a post-operative confluence gradient >2 mmHg were risk factors for reintervention. These findings support those found in our initial study.

Supracardiac Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection in Adolescence

Background Supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary communication (TAPVC) constitutes a rare congenital cardiac anomaly. Most babies with supracardiac TAPVC are diagnosed in infancy and undergo complete surgical repair during infancy. Delayed presentation of supracardiac TAPVC is rare, and the surgical outcomes are not well known. This retrospective study was conducted to determine the presentation and surgical outcome of supracardiac TAPVC among adolescents, which constitutes an extremely rare subgroup of TAPVC. Methodology This retrospective analysis was conducted among 15 adolescent patients with supracardiac TAPVC who underwent surgical repair in the cardiothoracic surgery department of a tertiary care center in India. This study aimed to assess the intraoperative, postoperative, immediate, early, and late outcomes of adolescent patients with supracardiac TAPVC who had undergone surgical repair between 2010 and 2014 in a tertiary care center in India. Results The study included 15 patients with a diagnosis of isolated supracardiac TAPVC. A mild degree of cyanosis was present in eight patients, recurrent episodes of lower respiratory tract infections were present in five patients, and dyspnea (New York Heart Association I/II) was noted in 12 patients. Mean oxygen saturation was 92% (range = 85-93%), and mean pulmonary artery pressure was 24 mmHg (range = 15-50 mmHg). After median stenotomy, a wide anastomosis was made between the common pulmonary venous chamber and the posterior wall of the left atrium. A fenestration was made in the Dacron patch in three patients who had raised pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) preoperatively. Twelve patients were weaned off cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with minimal inotropic support. Three patients who had high preoperative PVR had difficulty in weaning from CPB. The mean CPB and cross-clamp time was 75 ± 12 minutes and 58 ± 9 minutes, respectively. Atrial fibrillation was noted in five (33.3%) patients in the early postoperative period, and three (20%) patients had pulmonary artery hypertensive crises postoperatively. There was no superficial or deep sternal wound infection in the postoperative period. Mild and moderate right ventricular dysfunction was present in four (26.67%) and two (13.3%) patients, respectively, in the postoperative period. On two-dimensional echocardiography during follow-up at the end of one year, there was no gradient across the anastomosis, and pulmonary artery pressure was normal in all patients. Conclusions Surgical repair of supracardiac TAPVC in adolescence has an excellent outcome. Survival of patients with supracardiac TAPVC until adolescence depends on the presence of a dilated vertical vein and a large atrial septal defect facilitating unobstructed pulmonary venous flow. The aim of the surgical repair should be to create a wide anastomosis between the left atrium and the pulmonary venous chamber which should be bigger than the size of the mitral valve orifice indexed to the body surface area as it would amount to no or negligible anastomotic gradient postoperatively.

A Risk Prediction Model for Reintervention After Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair

BACKGROUND

Outcomes after total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) repair remain suboptimal due to recurrent pulmonary vein (PV) obstruction requiring reinterventions. We sought to develop a clinical prediction rule for PV reintervention after TAPVC repair.

METHODS

Data from consecutive patients who underwent TAPVC repair at a single institution from January 1980 to January 2020 were retrospectively reviewed after Institutional Review Board approval. The primary outcome was postdischarge (late) unplanned PV surgical or transcatheter reintervention. Echocardiographic criteria were used to assess PV residual lesion severity at discharge (class 1: no residua; class 2: minor residua; class 3: major residua). Competing risk models were used to develop a weighted risk score for late reintervention.

RESULTS

Of 437 patients who met entry criteria, there were 81 (18.5%) reinterventions at a median follow-up of 15.6 (interquartile range, 5.5-22.2) years. On univariable analysis, minor and major PV residua, age, single-ventricle physiology, infracardiac and mixed TAPVC, and preoperative obstruction were associated with late reintervention (all P < .05). The final risk prediction model included PV residua (class 2: subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR], 4.8; 95% CI, 2.8-8.1; P < .001; class 3: SHR, 6.4; 95% CI, 3.5-11.7; P < .001), age <1 year (SHR, 3.3; 95% CI, 1.3-8.5; P = .014), and preoperative obstruction (SHR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1-2.8; P = .015). A risk score comprising PV residua (class 2 or 3: 3 points), age (neonate or infant: 2 points), and obstruction (1 point) was formulated. Higher risk scores were significantly associated with worse freedom from reintervention (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

A risk prediction model of late reintervention may guide prognostication of high-risk patients after TAPVC repair.

Validation of a laser projection platform for the preparation of surgical patches used in paediatric cardiac surgery

OBJECTIVES

Reconstruction of cardiovascular anatomy with patch material is integral to the repair of congenital heart disease. We present validation of a laser projection platform for the preparation of surgical patches as a proof-of-concept for intraoperative use in patient-specific planning of paediatric cardiac surgery reconstructions.

METHODS

The MicroLASERGUIDE, a compact laser projection system that displays computer-aided designs onto 2D/3D surfaces, serves as an alternative to physical templates. A non-inferiority comparison of dimensional measurements was conducted between laser projection ('laser') and OZAKI AVNeo Template ('template') methods in creation of 51 (each group) size 13 valve leaflets from unfixed bovine pericardium. A digital version of the OZAKI AVNeo Template dimensions served as control. Feasibility testing was performed with other common patch materials (fixed bovine pericardium, PTFE and porcine main pulmonary artery as a substitute for pulmonary homograft) and sizes (13, 23) (n = 3 each group).

RESULTS

Compared to control (height 21.5, length 21.0 mm), template height and length were smaller (height and length differences of -0.3 [-0.5 to 0.0] and -0.4 [-0.8 to -0.1] mm, P < 0.01 each); whereas, both laser height and length were relatively similar (height and length differences of height 0.0 [-0.2 to 0.2], P = 0.804, and 0.2 [-0.1 to 0.4] mm, P = 0.029). Template percent error for height and length was -1.5 (-2.3 to 0.0)% and -1.9 (-3.7 to -0.6)% vs 0.2 (-1.0 to 1.1)% and 1.0 (-0.5 to 1.8)% for the laser. Similar results were found with other materials and sizes. Overall, laser sample dimensions differed by a maximum of 5% (∼1 mm) from the control.

CONCLUSIONS

The laser projection platform has demonstrated promise as an alternative methodology for the preparation of surgical patches for use in cardiac surgery. This technology has potential to revolutionize preoperative surgical planning for numerous congenital anomalies that require patient-specific patch-augmented repair.

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection in 80 patients: Primary sutureless repair and outcomes

Introduction

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is a rare but critical cardiac anomaly, in which pulmonary veins are connected to an abnormal location rather than the left atrium. The prognosis can be extremely poor without intervention, with a mortality of 80% during infancy. The purpose of this research is to summarize the outcomes and relevant risk factors of 80 total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) patients who underwent primary TAPVC sutureless repair and discuss the indications and benefits of primary sutureless repair.

Methods

This retrospective review included 80 patients with TAPVC who underwent primary sutureless repair at a single institution between January 2015 and December 2020. Patients were subdivided into 4 groups according to Darling's classification. Risk factors that increase the postoperative pulmonary vein flow velocity were explored by Multiple Linear regression.

Results

Anatomic TAPVC subtypes included supracardiac 35 (43.8%), cardiac 24 (30%), infracardiac 17 (21.2%), and mixed 4 (5%). Median age at repair was 16.5 days and median weight was 3.5 kg. Preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO)was presented in 20 (25%) patients. There were 2 early deaths and 1 late death. 2 patients developed postoperative PVO and none required reintervention. Prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time (CPB) (p = 0.009), preoperative pneumonia (p = 0.022) and gender (p = 0.041) were found to be associated with the increase of postoperative pulmonary vein flow velocity.

Discussion

Under the primary sutureless technique, no statistical difference was observed among the 4 subgroups in terms of postoperative pulmonary vein flow velocity (p = 0.589). The primary sutureless technique may eliminate the differences between subtypes while decrease the postoperative PVO rate, which makes it applicable in any subtypes of TAPVC. Following the favorable outcomes in preventing postoperative PVO in all subtypes in this study, we advocate the indications for primary sutureless repair may expand further to all the TAPVC patients.

Outcomes of treatment for right atrial isomerism with functional single ventricle and extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection beyond neonatal period: Delayed surgical treatment, improving outcomes

Objective

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is frequently associated with right atrial isomerism (RAI), which is commonly complicated with an unbalanced atrioventricular canal with contralateral hypoplasia, complex systemic and pulmonary venous anatomy, and conotruncal abnormalities, resulting in increased risk of mortality. This study aimed to review the outcomes of delayed surgical treatment for patients with RAI complicated with functional single ventricle (FSV) and TAPVC at a single center.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we reviewed the medical records of 24 consecutive patients with RAI complicated with FSV and TAPVC who underwent initial surgical palliation after 5-month old between September 2008 and June 2019. Demographic data, concomitant anomalies, age at initial palliation, and surgical interventions were extracted and analyzed using the Cox proportional hazard model to assess risk factors for mortality and the Kaplan-Meier method to assess survival.

Results

The in-hospital mortality was 12.5% (three out of 24). The causes of death were pulmonary arterial hypertension and low cardiac output syndrome. Average follow-up was 65.2 ± 40.3 months (7-137 months). Another 4 patients died during the follow-up due to low cardiac output syndrome, protein-losing enteropathy and pulmonary arterial hypertension, respectively. Kaplan-Meier estimated survival at 1 and 5 years were 83.1 and 69.4%, respectively. Fontan completion was 45.8% (11/24). The mortality for patients with pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) was 66.7% (4/6). Cox multivariate regression analysis indicated that preoperative PVO was the only risk factor for mortality (p = 0.032; hazard ratio, 10.000; CI 1.222-81.811).

Conclusion

Outcomes of delayed surgical treatment for patients with RAI complicated with FSV and TAPVC have improved significantly. The survival and Fontan completion were higher. However, preoperative PVO was still the risk factor for mortality.

Supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection type Ib: Morphology and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection is the most common subtype of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. We aimed to describe the morphological spectrum of supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection and to identify risk factors for death and postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction.

METHODS

From February 2009 to June 2019, 241 patients diagnosed with supracardiac-Ia (left-sided vertical vein, n = 185) or supracardiac-Ib (right-sided connection directly to superior vena cava, n = 56) total anomalous pulmonary venous connection underwent initial surgical repair at our institute. Cases with functionally univentricular circulations or atrial isomerism were excluded. Patients' postoperative survival was described by Kaplan-Meier curves. Cox proportional hazards models and competing risk regression models were used to identify clinical risk factors for death and postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction.

RESULTS

There were 8 early deaths and 4 late deaths. The overall survivals at 30 days, 1 year, and 10 years were 97.1%, 94.8%, and 94.8%, respectively, in the supracardiac-Ia group (2.7%, 5/185) (hazard ratio, 4.8; P = .003). Five patients required reoperation for pulmonary venous obstruction, including 2 patients who required reintervention for superior vena cava syndromes (all in the supracardiac-Ib group). One patient required superior vena cava balloon dilation for superior vena cava syndromes. Multivariable analysis showed that the supracardiac-Ib group (12.5%, 7/56) had a significantly higher mortality rate than the supracardiac-Ia group (adjusted hazard ratio, 8.5, P = .008). Surgical weight less than 2.5 kg (adjusted hazard ratio, 10.8, P = .023), longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.15 per 10 minutes, P = .012), and supracardiac-Ib subtype (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.7, P = .037) were independent risk factors associated with death. The supracardiac-Ib subtype (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.8, P = .003) was an incremental risk factor associated with postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

Morphological features of supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection, especially the supracardiac-Ib subtype, were risk factors associated with postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction and survival. Patients with unique anatomic subtypes might require more individualized surgical planning.

Outcomes of total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage repair in neonates and the impact of pulmonary hypertension on survival

Background

Mortality after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) in neonates has remained high. Analysis of risk factors may help identify therapeutic targets to improve survival.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all neonates who underwent simple TAPVD repair.

Results

Between 1973 and 2021, 175 neonates underwent TAPVD repair, at a median age of 6 days (interquartile range, 2-15 days) and a mean weight of 3.2 ± 0.6 kg. TAPVD was supracardiac in 42.3% of the patients (74 of 175), cardiac in 14.3% (25 of 175), infracardiac in 40% (70 of 175), and mixed type in 3.4% (6 of 175), with obstruction in 65.7% (115 of 175). Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) crisis occurred in 12% (21 of 175). Early mortality was 9.7% (17 of 175) and late mortality was 5.1% (8 of 158), with most deaths occurring within 1 year (75%; 6 of 8). Survival was 86.5% (95% CI, 80.3%-90.8%) at 1 year and 85.8% (95% CI, 79.6%-90.3%) at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years. Survival was lower in patients with obstructed TAPVD, patients with emergent surgery, and those with PHT crisis. PHT crisis (hazard ratio [HR], 4.93; 95% CI, 1.95-12.51; P = .001), urgency of surgery (HR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.11-5.68; P = .027), and higher pulmonary artery pressure-to-systemic blood pressure percentage ratio (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11; P = .026) were identified as risk factors for mortality. Histopathological analysis of 17 patients (9.7%; 17 of 175) showed signs of pulmonary arterial hypertension with media hypertrophy in 58.8% (10 of 17).

Conclusions

Mortality after TAPVD repair occurred mainly within the first year of life. Urgency of surgery and persistent PHT appears to be risk factors for mortality. Lung biopsy might be useful for identifying patients at risk and guiding newer treatment modalities.

Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair: Single-Center Outcomes in a Lower-Middle Income Region

BACKGROUND

The management of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) in neonates and infants is resource-intensive. We describe early and follow-up outcomes after surgical repair of isolated TAPVC at a single institution in a resource-limited setting.

METHODS

The data of 316 consecutive patients with isolated TAPVC undergoing repair (January 2010-September 2020) were reviewed. The study setting was a tertiary hospital in southern India that provides subsidized or charitable care. Standard surgical technique was used for repair, circulatory arrest was avoided, and suture-less anastomosis was reserved for small or stenotic pulmonary veins. Surgical and postoperative strategies were directed toward minimizing intensive care unit (ICU) stay.

RESULTS

302 (95.6%) patients were infants and 128 patients (40.5%) were neonates; median weight was 3.3 kg (IQR 2.8-4.0 kg). Obstruction of the TAPVC was seen in 176 patients (56%) and pulmonary hypertension in 278 patients (88%). Seventeen (5.4%) underwent delayed sternal closure. The median postoperative ICU stay was 120 h (IQR 96-192 h), mechanical ventilation was 45 h (IQR 24-82 h), and hospital stay was 13 days (IQR 9-17 days). There were three in-hospital deaths (0.9%). Over a median follow-up period of 53.3 months (IQR 22.9-90.4), pulmonary vein restenosis was seen in 32 patients (10.1%) after a mean of 2.2 months (1-6 months). No perioperative risk factors for restenosis were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Using specific perioperative strategies, it is possible to correct TAPVC with excellent surgical outcomes in low-resource environments. Late pulmonary vein restenosis remains an important complication.

Persistent right heart dilatation after percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty: A weird coexistence of iatrogenic and congenital shunts

We present an interesting case of concomitant congenital anomalies with an iatrogenic defect. The female patient underwent a percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty due to rheumatic mitral stenosis. Unfortunately, an iatrogenic atrial septal defect (ASD) transpired during the procedure. Upon post-procedure examination, partial anomalous pulmonary venous (PAPVR) return was observed. The patient was symptomatic; on imaging, dilatation of the right heart chambers were detected. In addition, another crucial point was that the patient was planning a pregnancy, thus robotic surgery for iatrogenic ASD and PAPVR return was recommended. After a successful operation, the patient was asymptomatic and the size of right heart chambers were normalized.

Echocardiographic evaluation of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection: Comparison of obstructed and unobstructed type

This study aims to compare the differences between obstructed and unobstructed total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) using echocardiography, and to evaluate the clinical and echocardiographic parameters associated with pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO).We conducted a retrospective study of 70 patients with TAPVC between 2014 and 2019. The morphologic and hemodynamic echocardiographic parameters of patients were observed and measured, and the parameters between obstructed and unobstructed TAPVC were compared. The clinical and echocardiographic parameter differences between the two groups were used for ROC curve analysis.Obstructed TAPVC was found in 30 (42.9%) of 70 patients. Between obstructed and unobstructed TAPVC, there were significant differences in atrial septal defect size, pulmonary artery maximum velocity (PA Vmax ), peak E velocity of mitral valve, left ventricular fractional shortening, left ventricular ejection fraction, stroke volume and the incidence of patent ductus arteriosus, but there was no significant difference in birth weight. The first diagnosis age of obstructed TAPVC was earlier than unobstructed type. The ROC curve analysis for the first diagnosis age showed the sensitivity and specificity were 76.7%, 80% respectively. The ROC curve analysis for the PA Vmax showed the sensitivity and specificity were 88.5%, 67.6% respectively.Patients with TAPVC had a high incidence of PVO. The presence of PVO can affect the size of atrial septal defect and the closure of the ductus arteriosus, cause significant changes in PA Vmax, peak E velocity of mitral valve, left ventricular fractional shortening, left ventricular ejection fraction, stroke volume, lead to earlier symptoms and earlier first diagnosis age. The first diagnosis age and PA Vmax were excellent values since they associated with PVO.

Predictors of mortality and morbidity in total anomalous pulmonary venous connection with biventricular physiology: A 10-year Indian single centre experience of 492 patients

Background

Surgical correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) remains associated with significant mortality despite advances in intra-operative and postoperative management. We retrospectively analyzed 492 consecutive TAPVC patients with biventricular physiology, who were operated at our centre, with regard to predictors of mortality, morbidity, and intermediate-term outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A total of 492 TAPVC patients with biventricular physiology were operated at our centre from August 2009 to November 2019. Their medical records were reviewed and were followed up during March-April 2020 for any symptoms of cardiac disease.

Results

Of 492, 302 (61.38%) were healthy at follow-up, 29 (5.89%) had postoperative mortality, 23 (4.67%) had mortality during the follow-up period, and 138 (28.05%) were lost to follow up. Age <1 month and weight <2.5 kg were associated with higher mortality with odds ratios (OR) of 6.37 and 5.56, respectively. There was no difference in mortality in different types of TAPVC. Obstructed TAPVC was associated with higher mortality with OR of 3.05. Acute kidney injury requiring peritoneal dialysis and sepsis were associated with higher mortality with ORs of 10.17 and 3.29, respectively. All follow-up mortality occurred in <1 year from the index operation. Anastomotic gradients were significantly higher in patients who died.

Conclusions

Although peri-operative TAPVC mortality has reduced, mortality on follow-up continues to occur and is partly due to the obstruction of pulmonary venous pathway. Meticulous follow-up holds the key in further reducing the mortality. Larger studies are needed for the identification of risk factors for pulmonary venous obstruction and its preventive strategies.

Clinical Nomogram for Predicting the Prognosis of Patients With Pulmonary Venous Obstruction After Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair

Background

The aim of this study was to establish a nomogram to quantify the risk of postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) and to make a scientific decision through the decision curve.

Methods

In total, 151 PVO patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) repair in our hospital from December 2008 to December 2015 were involved in this study. A nomogram was generated based on the contribution weights of variables, which were found out by logistic analysis. The optimal clinical decision point was determined by the decision analysis and clinical impact curve, which could assess the net benefit between the nomogram and each independent risk factor for postoperative PVO.

Result

Pulmonary venous obstruction with TAPVC repair was found to be positively and independently correlated with preoperative pulmonary hypertension, surgical methods, and preoperative pulmonary venous stenosis.

Conclusion(s)

The study introduced a novel model to aid in clinical decisions making for the patients with TAPVC individually, which may shed light on the evaluation of PVO risk.

Surgical management of hearts with isomeric atrial appendages

BACKGROUND AND AIM

On the basis of previously published accounts, coupled with our own experience, we have assessed the surgical approaches to patients with isomeric atrial appendages.

METHODS

We reviewed pertinent published studies on surgical treatment of individuals with isomeric atrial appendages, with the pertinent surgical details provided by most of the manuscripts.

RESULTS

Half of patients with right isomerism, and two-thirds of those with left isomerism have bilateral superior caval veins. Azygos extension of the inferior caval vein is reported in three-quarters of those with left isomerism. The coronary sinus is universally absent in right isomerism, along with totally anomalous pulmonary venous connection, and is absent in two-fifths of those with left isomerism. Univentricular atrioventricular connections are expected in up to three-quarters of those with right isomerism. Atrioventricular septal defect is reported in up to four-fifths, more frequently in right isomerism, with such patients typically having discordant ventriculoatrial connections or double outlet right ventricle. Reported mortalities extend to 85% for those with right, and 50% for those with left isomerism. In right isomerism, mortality is up to 54% for systemic-to-pulmonary arterial shunting, up to 75% for univentricular repair, and up to 95% for repair of totally anomalous pulmonary venous connection itself. No more than one-quarter had undergone Fontan completion, with reported mortalities of 21%.

CONCLUSION

Early surgical results are satisfactory in patients with left isomerism, but disappointing for those with right. Recent advances in cardiac and liver transplantation may offer improved survival.

Building A Risk Prediction Model for Postoperative Pulmonary Vein Obstruction via Quantitative Analysis of CTA Images

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is a rare but mortal congenital heart disease in children and can be repaired by surgical operations. However, some patients may suffer from pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) after surgery with insufcient blood supply, necessitating special follow-up strategy and treatment. Therefore, it is a clinically important yet challenging problem to predict such patients before surgery. In this paper, we address this issue and propose a computational framework to determine the risk factors for postoperative PVO (PPVO) from computed tomography angiography (CTA) images and build the PPVO risk prediction model. From clinical experiences, such risk factors are likely from the left atrium (LA) and pulmonary vein (PV) of the patient. Thus, 3D models of LA and PV are rst reconstructed from low-dose CTA images. Then, a feature pool is built by computing different morphological features from 3D models of LA and PV, and the coupling spatial features of LA and PV. Finally, four risk factors are identied from the feature pool using the machine learning techniques, followed by a risk prediction model. As a result, not only PPVO patients can be effectively predicted but also qualitative risk factors reported in the literature can now be quantied. Finally, the risk prediction model is evaluated on two independent clinical datasets from two hospitals. The model can achieve the AUC values of 0.88 and 0.87 respectively, demonstrating its effectiveness in risk prediction.

Abnormal drainage pathway of a supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage in a neonate: a case report

Supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage is commonly associated with a left-sided ascending vein draining into innominate vein. We present a case of a newborn with a right-sided ascending vein, draining into the right superior caval vein with stenosis at the SVC-ascending vein junction, posing a surgical dilemma in corrective surgery. Usage of three-dimensional computed tomographic scan was essential in delineating the anatomy and aiding surgery. The case demonstrates the rarity of this type of cardiac disease and the complications that develop.

Secondary Pulmonary Vein Stenosis Due to Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair in Children: Extravascular MDCT Findings

Purpose: To evaluate extravascular findings on thoracic MDCT angiography in secondary pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) due to total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) repair in children. Materials and Methods: All patients aged ≤18 years with a known diagnosis of secondary PVS after TAPVC repair, confirmed by echocardiography, conventional angiography, and/or surgery, who underwent thoracic MDCT angiography studies between July 2008 and April 2021 were included. Two pediatric radiologists independently examined MDCT angiography studies for the presence of extravascular thoracic abnormalities in the lung, pleura, and mediastinum. The location and distribution of each abnormality (in relation to the location of PVS) were also evaluated. Interobserver agreement between the two independent pediatric radiology reviewers was studied using kappa statistics. Results: The study group consisted of 20 consecutive pediatric patients (17 males, 3 females) with secondary PVS due to TAPVC repair. Age ranged from 2 months to 8 years (mean, 16.1 months). In children with secondary PVS due to TAPVC repair, the characteristic extravascular thoracic MDCT angiography findings were ground-glass opacity (19/20; 95%), septal thickening (7/20; 35%), pleural thickening (17/20; 85%), and a poorly defined, mildly heterogeneously enhancing, non-calcified soft tissue mass (17/20; 85%) which followed the contours of affected pulmonary veins outside the lung. There was excellent interobserver kappa agreement between two independent reviewers for detecting extravascular abnormalities on thoracic MDCT angiography studies (k = 0.99). Conclusion: Our study characterizes the extravascular thoracic MDCT angiography findings in secondary pediatric PVS due to TAPVC repair. In the lungs and pleura, ground-glass opacity, interlobular septal thickening, and pleural thickening are common findings. Importantly, the presence of a mildly heterogeneously enhancing, non-calcified mediastinal soft tissue mass in the distribution of the PVS is a novel characteristic thoracic MDCT angiography finding seen in pediatric secondary PVS due to TAPVC repair.

Outcomes of Surgical Repair of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Drainage: Role of Primary Sutureless Technique

To evaluate the surgical outcomes of total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage focusing on survival, postoperative and pulmonary venous obstruction. Further investigate the role of primary sutureless technique in patients with preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction. Consecutive patients underwent total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage repair in our institution during Jan 2000 to Dec 2019 were enrolled into this retrospective analysis. Since 2016, sutureless repair was regularly applied in patients with preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction. All patients with preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction referred before 2016 had underwent traditional repair. A total of 95 patients were included. During follow-up time of 85 months, main endpoints were documented in 21 patients, including 9 (9.5%) early deaths, 3 (2.3%) late deaths and 9 (9.5%) postoperative pulmonary venous obstructions. Preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction was presented in 26 (27.4%) patients with more emergent surgery (14/26 vs 3/69, P < 0.001) was required. Main endpoints occurred more in patients with preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (4/26 vs 5/69, P = 0.004). Patients experienced sutureless technique had a lower incidence of postoperative PVO at follow-up (0/11 versus 4/11, P = 0.045). Outcomes of surgical repair for total anomalous venous drainage are satisfactory. However, preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction may be accompanying unfavorable early deaths and postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction. Propensity matching analysis showed that sutureless technique was benefit for postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction without longer cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp time.

Computed tomography-based surgical strategy for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

OBJECTIVES

We used computed tomographic angiography (CTA)-based surgical planning to clarify the anatomical indications of sutureless repair technique for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. The mid-term impact of the current surgical strategies was evaluated.

METHODS

One hundred twelve patients underwent repair for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. The study period was divided into era 1 (1996-2010, n = 56) and era 2 (2011-2018, n = 56). Patients with single ventricular heart (SVH) were included. In era 2, the indications for primary sutureless repair and branch pulmonary vein incision were based on CTA findings.

RESULTS

For patients with biventricular heart, the 5-year survival was 69% and 97% in eras 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.0024). For patients with SVH, the 5-year survival was 21% and 70% in eras 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.0007). During the follow-up period, the evidence of post-repair pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) was observed in 12 patients with biventricular heart [era 1, 8 patients (23%); era 2, 4 patients (13%)], and 14 patients with SVH [era 1, 6 patients (60%); era 2, 8 patients (36%)]. Using multivariable analysis, preoperative CTA was associated with improved survival in both biventricular heart and SVH and associated with post-repair PVS-free survival in SVH. Since 2011, 12 patients with post-repair PVS underwent multiple reintervention with 1 recorded death (5-year survival: 88%).

CONCLUSIONS

CTA-based surgical strategy for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection provided significant survival benefit. Although post-repair PVS could occur in era 2, aggressive reintervention appeared to be associated with improved survival and vein patency.

Factors Associated with Early Postoperative Results of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair: Findings from Retrospective Single-Institution Data in Vietnam

Introduction

There are scanty reports of the risk factors for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and low cardiac output syndrome after the operative repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC). We aim to evaluate early surgical outcomes of TAPVC and risk factors for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and low cardiac output syndrome.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective medical record review for all patients undergoing operative repair of TAPVC within 5 years. Outcome variables included pulmonary hypertensive crisis, low cardiac output syndrome and early mortality.

Results

Of 58 patients, we documented 77.59% supracardiac, 20.69% cardiac and 1.72% mixed site of connection. About 86.21% patients underwent elective surgery, and 13.79% patients required emergency surgery. Incidence rates were 27.59% for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and 6.90% for low cardiac output syndrome. Body weight below 6 kg, pneumonia, tachycardia, hepatomegaly, preoperative pulmonary congestion on chest x-ray, preoperative elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure, preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction, emergency surgery and prolonged aortic cross-clamping time were significant risk factors for postoperative pulmonary hypertensive crisis. Significant risk factors for postoperative low cardiac output syndrome included pneumonia, prolonged duration of preoperative mechanical ventilation and prolonged aortic cross-clamping time.

Conclusion

The early outcome of surgical repair of TAPVC was acceptable, with 96.55% survival rate. This current analysis suggests that a thorough evaluation of all preoperative and operative characteristics is imperative to achieve best medical and surgical outcomes.

A Modified Approach with Caval Transection for Supracardiac Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection: Comparison Between Conventional and Sutureless Surgery in 173 Patients

The efficacy of primary sutureless repair for supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) needs to be confirmed. This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes between the conventional surgery and the sutureless technique with a modified approach in superior TAPVC. Between January 2008 and December 2018, 173 patients with supracardiac TAPVC underwent surgery either with the conventional procedure (n = 130) or the sutureless repair (n = 43). Multivariate analysis and competing-risk analysis were used to identify risk factors for early death and postoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO), respectively. Among 173 patients who underwent repair of supracardiac TAPVC, 46 (28%) had preoperative PVO, and 22 (12.7%) had postoperative PVO. The sutureless group had a lower postoperative PVO rate compared with the conventional group (p = 0.027). The risk factors for death were age ≤ 28 days [odds ratio (OR), 11.56; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.33-100.47, p = 0.015], weight ≤ 3 kg (OR 9.57; 95% CI 1.58-58.09, p = 0.009), emergency operation (OR 19.24; 95% CI 3.18-116.35, p = 0.002), cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 2.16; 95% CI 1.36-3.43, p = 0.003), cross-clamp time (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.20-2.50, p = 0.022), and duration of ventilation (OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.02-1.21, p = 0.027). Age ≤ 28 days [Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.92; 95% CI 1.92-11.02, p < 0.001] and preoperative PVO (HR 41.70; 95% CI 8.15-213.5, p < 0.001) were associated with postoperative PVO. The sutureless repair is a reliable technique for supracardiac TAPVC. Age ≤ 28 days is associated with 30-day mortality and postoperative PVO.

The Real Need for Regenerative Medicine in the Future of Congenital Heart Disease Treatment

Bioabsorbable materials made from polymeric compounds have been used in many fields of regenerative medicine to promote tissue regeneration. These materials replace autologous tissue and, due to their growth potential, make excellent substitutes for cardiovascular applications in the treatment of congenital heart disease. However, there remains a sizable gap between their theoretical advantages and actual clinical application within pediatric cardiovascular surgery. This review will focus on four areas of regenerative medicine in which bioabsorbable materials have the potential to alleviate the burden where current treatment options have been unable to within the field of pediatric cardiovascular surgery. These four areas include tissue-engineered pulmonary valves, tissue-engineered patches, regenerative medicine options for treatment of pulmonary vein stenosis and tissue-engineered vascular grafts. We will discuss the research and development of biocompatible materials reported to date, the evaluation of materials in vitro, and the results of studies that have progressed to clinical trials.

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection: Influence of heterotaxy and venous obstruction on outcomes

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated increased early mortality and pulmonary vein reintervention for patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) and heterotaxy syndrome (HTX+) compared with patients with TAPVC without heterotaxy syndrome (HTX-). We aimed to evaluate the longitudinal risk of pulmonary vein reintervention and mortality in HTX + patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to identify longitudinal interventions in patients with TAPVC seen at a single center from 1995 to 2019. The mean cumulative interventions were described for all patients using the Nelson-Aalen estimator. Survival with TAPVC was described using Kaplan-Meier estimates.

RESULTS

A total of 336 patients were identified with TAPVC, of whom 118 (35%) had heterotaxy syndrome. Functional single ventricles were identified in 106 of these 118 HTX + patients (90%) and in 14 of 218 HTX- patients (6%) (P < .001). Obstructed TAPVC (OBS+) was present in 49 of 118 HTX + patients (42%) and in 87 of 218 HTX- patients (40%) (P = .89). The median duration of follow-up was 6.5 years. Five-year survival was 69% for HTX+/OBS + patients, 72% for HTX+/OBS- patients, 86% for HTX-/OBS + patients, and 95% for HTX-/OBS- patients (P < .0001, log-rank test). The mean number of pulmonary vein interventions at the median follow-up time was greater in the HTX+/OBS + patients compared with HTX+/OBS- patients (mean, 2.0 vs 1.1; P = .030), HTX-/OBS + patients (mean, 1.3; P = .033), and HTX-/OBS- patients (mean, 1.3; P = .029).

CONCLUSIONS

Among the 4 cohorts, HTX+ was associated with a higher rate of mortality, and HTX+/OBS+ was associated with a greater number of pulmonary vein interventions. This may be due in part to the high prevalence of single ventricle physiology in the HTX + cohort.

Early and Intermediate-Term Results for the Combined Superior Approach Correction of Supracardiac Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection in Neonatal Patients

BACKGROUND

There are different surgical approaches used for repairing a supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC), with different results. This retrospective study evaluated the outcomes of surgical repair for supracardiac TAPVC through the combined superior approach in neonatal patients.

METHODS

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed and 21 neonates who underwent supracardiac TAPVC repair with the combined superior approach between July 2014 and January 2020 were identified. There were 13 males and eight females.

RESULTS

The patients' median age was 20.6±8.9 days (range, 3-27). The median weight was 3.1±0.39 kg (range, 2.5-3.7) The median aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times were 49.3±19.5 minutes (range, 27-86) and 91.1±23.7 minutes (range, 57-146). They were two deaths during the intensive care unit stay. One (1) patient died 2 months after discharge, the other remaining patients had no pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) at the 6-month and intermediate-term follow-ups.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined superior approach is a useful method for repair of neonatal critical supracardiac TAPVC. This technique may be more helpful in preventing early postoperative anastomotic stenosis and contribute to an improved patient outcome.

Venous Flow Variation Predicts Preoperative Pulmonary Venous Obstruction in Children with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection

BACKGROUND

Identifying preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction in total anomalous pulmonary venous connection is important to guide treatment planning and risk prognostication. No standardized echocardiographic definition of obstruction exists in the literature. Definitions based on absolute velocities are affected by technical limitations and variations in pulmonary venous return. The authors developed a metric to quantify pulmonary venous blood flow variation: pulmonary venous variability index (PVVI). The aim of this study was to demonstrate its accuracy in defining obstruction.

METHODS

All patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection at a single institution were identified. Echocardiograms were reviewed, and maximum (V_max), mean (V_mean), and minimum (V_min) velocities along the pulmonary venous pathway were measured. PVVI was defined as (V_max - V_min)/V_mean. These metrics were compared with pressures measured on cardiac catheterization. Echocardiographic measures were then compared between patients with and without clinical preoperative obstruction (defined as a need for preoperative intubation, catheter-based intervention, or surgery within 1 day of diagnosis), as well as pulmonary edema by chest radiography and markers of lactic acidosis. One hundred thirty-seven patients were included, with 22 having catheterization pressure recordings.

RESULTS

V_max and V_mean were not different between patients with catheter gradients ≥ 4 and < 4 mm Hg, while PVVI was significantly lower and V_min higher in those with gradients ≥ 4 mm Hg. The composite outcome of preoperative obstruction occurred in 51 patients (37%). Absolute velocities were not different between patients with and without clinical obstruction, while PVVI was significantly lower in patients with obstruction. All metrics except V_max were associated with pulmonary edema; none were associated with blood gas metrics.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors developed a novel quantitative metric of pulmonary venous flow, which was superior to traditional echocardiographic metrics. Decreased PVVI was highly associated with elevated gradients measured by catheterization and clinical preoperative obstruction. These results should aid risk assessment and diagnosis preoperatively in patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.

Catheter closure of a patent vertical vein after repair of an unusual total anomalous variant of pulmonary venous drainage

Total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) encompasses a wide spectrum of anatomical variants. The infradiaphragmatic type is almost always obstructive owing to the interposition of intrahepatic resistances; since almost invariable, the vertical vein inserts on the portal venous system. On correction of this variant, the vertical vein might not be ligated to avoid postoperative pulmonary hypertension. We hereby describe an unusual case of infradiaphragmatic TAPVD, with a vertical vein connected to ductus venosus. Since vertical vein was not ligated, it realized an unrestrictive pathway between the left atrium and the suprahepatic veins which resulted in persistent chylous peritoneal drainage. The patient successfully underwent catheter occlusion of the vertical vein which led to complete resolution of the clinical picture.

Treatment of Congenital and Acquired Pulmonary Vein Stenosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a rare entity that until the last 2 decades was seen primarily in infants and children. Percutaneous and surgical interventions have limited success due to relentless restenosis, and mortality remains high. In adults, acquired PVS following ablation for atrial fibrillation has emerged as a new syndrome. This work will review these two entities with emphasis on current treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Greater emphasis on understanding and addressing the mechanism of restenosis for congenital PVS has led to the use of drug-eluting stents (DES) and systemic drug therapy to target neo-intimal growth. Frequent reinterventions are positively affecting outcomes. Longer-term outcomes of percutaneous treatment for acquired PVS are emerging. Treatment of congenital PVS continues to be plagued by restenosis. DES show promise, but frequent reinterventions are required. Larger upstream vein diameter predicts success for congenital and acquired PVS interventions. Efforts to induce/maintain vessel growth are important for future treatment strategies.

Outcomes of systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt for single ventricular heart with extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

OBJECTIVES

A few studies have described the outcomes of systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt (SPS) for functional single ventricular heart with extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC). This study aimed to examine the outcomes of SPS with extracardiac TAPVC and identify the predictors of mortality before bidirectional Glenn operation (BDG).

METHODS

Medical records of 41 children with single ventricular heart and extracardiac TAPVC who underwent SPS between 1998 and 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. The median age and body weight at SPS were 36 days and 3.4 kg, respectively. Surgical outcomes and predictors of mortality were investigated.

RESULTS

Four operative deaths (10%) and 10 late deaths (27%) occurred before BDG. Of all the children, 19 underwent BDG at a median of 10 months since SPS and eight are waiting for BDG. In the multivariate analysis, preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (p = 0.01) at initial surgery was most predictive of death before BDG. Patients who underwent simultaneous SPS and TAPVC repair were younger, had high preoperative rate of pulmonary venous obstruction, and more deaths before BDG.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival outcomes of SPS for SVH with extracardiac TAPVC were improved as a whole due to the increase in knowledge and technique of management SPS. However, the patients who have preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) and need SPS and TAPVC repair concomitantly in the early postnatal period have poor outcomes and still challenging. In such a case, staged TAPVC repair and SPS may be beneficial.

Impact of intrapulmonary-artery septation to pulmonary vein obstruction for two-lung Fontan

OBJECTIVES

Patients with unbalanced pulmonary artery (PA) growth and decreased unilateral pulmonary circulation are considered unsuitable candidates for the Fontan procedure. Following our previous study on the utility of intrapulmonary-artery septation for patients with PA hypoplasia, we investigated its use in patients with pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO).

METHODS

We recruited 42 patients who underwent intrapulmonary-artery septation for unilateral PA hypoplasia and/or PVO between 1998 and 2018 and classified them into no PVO or PVO group. We analysed overall survival, success of the Fontan procedure and data from catheterization and echocardiography. In PVO, we evaluated the functional lung area before the Fontan procedure and the relevance of this parameter to operative outcomes.

RESULTS

The PVO and no-PVO group included 24 and 18 patients, respectively. One patient in the no-PVO and 6 patients in the PVO group died during follow-up; this difference was statistically significant (log-rank P = 0.040). In the no-PVO group, 15 (83%) patients achieved two-lung Fontan circulation. In the PVO group, 12 (50%) patients achieved two-lung Fontan circulation. Multivariate analysis revealed that functional lung area and shunt size [significantly larger in patients with functional lung area ≥50% in affected lung (P = 0.040)] were significant factors for successful two-lung Fontan procedure (P = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Intrapulmonary-artery septation may contribute to increase functional lung area after PVO release to establish two-lung Fontan circulation in patients with PVO who have unbalanced PA growth and/or decreased unilateral pulmonary circulation.

Incidence and treatment of pulmonary vein stenosis after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

Background

In this study, we aimed to investigate the incidence and treatment of pulmonary vein stenosis after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.

Methods

Between December 2010 and December 2016, a total of 40 patients (25 males, 15 females; mean age 45±41 days; range, 2 days to 6 months) who underwent total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Eighteen (45%) of the patients were supracardiac, seven (17.5%) were cardiac, eight (20%) were infracardiac, and seven (17.5%) were mixed-type anomaly. Twelve patients (30%) had obstruction of the pulmonary venous pathways. Hospital mortality was seen in three patients (7.5%). All of non-survivors received emergent surgery and the causes of death were sepsis and multiple organ failure. A total of 23 complications were seen in 20 patients (50%) mainly delayed sternal closure (n=11; 27.5%) and prolonged mechanical ventilation (n=6; 15%). The mean follow-up was 12.2±9.6 (range, 1 to 36) months in all patients, except one. Pulmonary vein stenosis developed in three patients (8.3%) after repair. All of them underwent sutureless repair.

Conclusion

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection can be repaired with low mortality and morbidity rates and favorable mid-term outcomes. Close follow-up is necessary due to the risk of development of pulmonary vein stenosis. Sutureless repair may provide relief in such cases.

Outcomes of Multistage Palliation of Infants With Single Ventricle and Atrioventricular Septal Defect

Background:

Published palliation outcomes of infants with functional single ventricle (SV) and common atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) are poor due to associated cardiac and extracardiac anomalies and development of atrioventricular valve (AVV) regurgitation. We report current palliation results.

Methods:

From 2002 to 2012, 80 infants with functional SV with AVSD underwent multistage palliation. Competing-risks analyses modeled events after first-stage surgery and Glenn (death/transplantation vs next palliation surgery) and examined factors associated with survival and AVV intervention.

Results:

Sixty-eight (80%) patients received neonatal palliation: modified Blalock-Taussig shunt (n = 33, 41%), Norwood (n = 20, 25%), and pulmonary artery band (n = 15, 19%), whereas 12 (15%) received primary Glenn. On competing-risks analysis, one-year following first-stage surgery, 29% of patients had died or received transplantation and 62% had undergone Glenn. Five years following Glenn, 9% of patients had died or received transplantation and 68% had undergone Fontan. Overall eight-year survival was 64% and was lower in patients with genetic syndromes (53% vs 82%), patients requiring concomitant total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair (53% vs 69%), and those requiring neonatal palliation (48% vs 100%). Factors associated with mortality were unplanned reoperation (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.7 [1.7-8.0], P = .001) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use (HR: 7.1 [3.0-16.6], P < .001). Initial AVV regurgitation ≥ moderate was associated with AVV intervention (HR: 6.2 [2.4-16.1], P = .002) with eight-year freedom from death or AVV intervention of 25% in those patients.

Conclusions:

Patients with SV with AVSD are a distinct group and commonly have associated cardiac and extracardiac malformations that complicate care and affect survival. The development of AVV regurgitation requiring intervention is common but does not affect survival.

Clinical outcomes after the endovascular treatments of pulmonary vein stenosis in patients with congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a condition with challenging treatment and leads to severe cardiac failure and pulmonary hypertension. Despite aggressive surgical or catheter-based intervention, the prognosis of PVS is unsatisfactory. This study aimed to assess the prognosis and to establish appropriate treatment strategies.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed endovascular treatments for PVS (2001-2017) from the clinical database at the Okayama University Hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 24 patients underwent PVS associated with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection and 7 patients underwent isolated congenital PVS. In total, 53 stenotic pulmonary veins were subjected to endovascular treatments; 40 of them were stented by hybrid (29) and percutaneous procedures (11) (bare-metal stent, n = 34; drug-eluting stent, n = 9). Stent size of hybrid stenting was larger than percutaneous stenting. Median follow-up duration from the onset of PVS was 24 months (4-134 months). Survival rate was 71 and 49% at 1 and 5 years, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between stent placement and survival; however, patients who underwent bare-metal stent implantation had statistically better survival than those who underwent drug-eluting stent implantation or balloon angioplasty. Early onset of stenosis, timing of stenting, and small vessel diameter of pulmonary vein before stenting were considered as risk factors for in-stent restenosis. Freedom from re-intervention was 50 and 26% at 1 and 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

To improve survival and stent patency, implantation of large stent is important. However, re-intervention after stenting is also significant to obtain good outcome.

Long-term Outcomes of the Fontan Operation in Patients With Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Drainage

BACKGROUND

Few patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) and a univentricular circulation survive to Fontan completion. Hence, we sought to determine the long-term outcomes of the Fontan operation in patients with TAPVD.

METHODS

Patients with TAPVD who underwent the Fontan operation and survived to hospital discharge in Australia and New Zealand between 1985 to 2017 were identified (n = 54) from a binational Fontan registry.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients (60%) underwent repair of TAPVD at a median age of 0.8 (interquartile range: 0.3-1.6) years. Thirty-seven patients (69%) had heterotaxy. The median age at time of Fontan operation was 5.7 years. There were 4 late deaths and 3 patients required cardiac transplantation for a failing Fontan circulation. On univariate analysis, the concomitant diagnosis of pulmonary stenosis and right ventricular dominance was associated with late death or transplantation (P = .04). Freedom from late death or transplantation at 15 years after the Fontan operation was 88% ± 7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 67%-96%) for the repaired TAPVD group and 90% ± 6% (95% CI, 67%-98%) for the unrepaired TAPVD group (P = .47). Median follow-up after the Fontan procedure was 10.8 (interquartile range, 6.7-16.2) years. The majority of survivors (94%) were in New York Heart Association functional class I or II. The 15-year freedom from death or transplantation was similar for patients with TAPVD (89% ± 5%; 95% CI, 76%-95%) compared with patients without TAPVD in the Fontan registry (n = 1446; 92% ± 1%; 95% CI, 90%-93%) (P = .12).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term survival of patients with TAPVD who undergo the Fontan operation and survived to hospital discharge is comparable to Fontan survivors without TAPVD.

Outcomes of Reinterventions for Children with Postoperative Pulmonary Venous Restenosis

This report aims to summarize and evaluate the efficacy and experience of reintervention for children with postoperative pulmonary venous restenosis. Clinical data from 61 patients with postoperative pulmonary venous restenosis who underwent reintervention at Shanghai Children's Medical Center (SCMC) from September 2009 to June 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients comprised 38 boys and 23 girls, with a mean age of 15.4 ± 12.6 months (2-83 months) and a mean weight of 8.1 ± 3.4 kg (3.7-18.5 kg). The mean pulmonary venous velocity was 2.31 ± 0.47 m/s (1.86-3.22 m/s). Primary disease included 48 cases of total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage, nine cases of partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage, and four cases of primary pulmonary venous stenosis. The reintervention procedures included 34 cases using the sutureless technique, ten cases using bovine pericardium enlargement, three cases using blunt enlargement, four cases of balloon dilatation, one case using stent implantation and nine cases involving more than two surgical methods. The early postoperative pulmonary venous velocity was 1.16 ± 0.20 m/s. There were five in-hospital deaths, resulting in a mortality rate of 8.2%. Fifty-six survivors were followed for 52.8 ± 46.5 months (6-103 months) with no delayed deaths. Echocardiography showed pulmonary venous anastomosis and diameter growth after reintervention, exhibiting a mean growth speed of 0.026 ± 0.013 cm/month (p < 0.05) and a mean velocity of 1.24 ± 0.26 m/s; five patients experienced varying degrees of pulmonary venous obstruction (> 1.6 m/s), but did not require reoperation. Postoperative pulmonary venous restenosis is a common complication after surgery for pulmonary venous malformations. Reintervention should be performed in the early period of pulmonary venous obstruction. Growth of pulmonary venous anastomoses was observed after performing the sutureless technique, bovine pericardium enlargement and blunt enlargement. Although balloon dilatation has a good effect in the early postoperative period, its restenosis rate is high, and strict mid- to long-term follow-up is needed.

Is Sutureless Technique Beneficial in the Primary Repair of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

A meta-analysis was performed for a comparison of outcomes between sutureless technique and conventional surgery for primary repair for total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC). Electronic databases including PubMed, EMbase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched systematically for the single-arm studies regarding sutureless repair or conventional surgery, and two-arm studies compared the outcomes of sutureless repair and conventional surgery for TAPVC. Corresponding data were extracted and the methodological quality was assessed by two reviewers independently. 26 studies were included, involving a total of 2702 patients. It was observed that compared with conventional surgery, sutureless technique was associated with a lower occurrence rate of post-operative pulmonary veins obstruction (PVO) (4.6% vs. 13.5%, OR 0.54 in favor of sutureless technique) and re-operations due to PVO (3.4% vs. 12.4%, 0.25 in favor of sutureless technique). However, meta-analyses of post-operative early (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.27-1.19; P = 0.13), late (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.13-1.06; P = 0.13), and overall (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.36-1.03; P = 0.07) mortality showed no significant difference between sutureless technique and conventional surgery. Compared with conventional surgery, sutureless technique was associated with a lower occurrence rate of post-operative PVO and re-operations due to PVO. Meanwhile, post-operative early, late, and overall mortality were not statistically different between two surgical approaches. Sutureless technique is beneficial in the primary repair of TAPVC regarding post-operative PVO and re-operations due to PVO. However, the level of evidence was low and randomized controlled trials should be designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of sutureless technique for TAPVC.

Midterm results and risk factors of functional single ventricles with extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of surgical repair of an extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) in a functional single-ventricle (f-SV) strategy.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of 48 consecutive cases of extracardiac TAPVC repair, from 1998 to 2015. Demographic and clinical variables were as follows: median age, 24 (range 0-744) days; median weight, 3.1 (range 2.0-9.6) kg; type of TAPVC-supracardiac, 21 patients, infracardiac, 8, and mixed, 19; right atrial isomerism, 45 patients; pulmonary atresia, 24 patients; and obstructed TAPVC, 30 patients. Concomitant procedures included systemic-to-pulmonary shunting in 15 patients, pulmonary artery banding in 12, ventricle-to-pulmonary artery shunting in 2, a Norwood procedure in one, a bidirectional Glenn procedure in 16, and a Fontan procedure in 1.

RESULTS

The 1- and 5-year cumulative survival rates were 66.0% and 58.0%, respectively. Of the 28 survivors, 22 (78.6%) underwent Fontan completion and 4 (14.3%) a bidirectional Glenn procedure, and 1 (3.6%) was awaiting a bidirectional Glenn procedure. Recurrent pulmonary venous stenosis (PVS) was observed in 17 patients, with a 1- and 5-year rates of freedom from recurrent PVS 59.8% and 53.5%, respectively. Of the 20 post-operative deaths, only 4 were PVS related. Only pre-operative pulmonary atresia was identified as an independent risk factor of mortality after TAPVC repair.

CONCLUSIONS

The midterm surgical outcomes of f-SV with extracardiac TAPVC were acceptable. Moreover, among survivors, Fontan completion can be sufficiently expected. Further improvement, with the development of a comprehensive treatment strategy, is required for this patient group.

Adults With Complex Congenital Heart Disease: Cerebrovascular Considerations for the Neurologist

As infant and childhood mortality has decreased in congenital heart disease, this population is increasingly reaching adulthood. Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) represent a group with increased risk of stroke, silent brain infarcts, and vascular cognitive impairment. Cyanotic and other complex cardiac lesions confer the greatest risk of these cerebrovascular insults. ACHD patients, in addition to having an increased risk of stroke from structural cardiac issues and associated physiological changes, may have an accelerated burden of conventional vascular risk factors, including hypertension and impaired glucose metabolism. Adult neurologists should be aware of the risks of clinically evident and subclinical cerebrovascular disease in this population. We review the existing evidence on primary and secondary stroke prevention in individuals with complex congenital heart disease, and identify knowledge gaps in need of further research, including treatment of acute stroke in this population. Multisystemic genetic syndromes are outside the scope of this review.

Repair of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection: Risk Factors for Postoperative Obstruction

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary venous obstruction after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) results in substantial morbidity and mortality. Risk factors for postoperative obstruction remain ambiguous. In addition, the existing literature has no standard definition for preoperative obstruction, making patient counseling difficult.

METHODS

All patients undergoing repair of TAPVC at our institution from January 1, 2006, to October 23, 2017, were identified. The primary outcome was the development of postoperative obstruction, analyzed as a time-to-event outcome. Clinical information was extracted to assess risk factors. Degrees of preoperative obstruction were defined based on echocardiographic, catheterization, and clinical findings. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression methods were used to identify factors associated with the primary outcome.

RESULTS

During the study interval, 119 patients underwent repair of TAPVC (40% single ventricle), and postoperative obstruction developed in 25 patients (21%). Risk factors associated with obstruction were heterotaxy syndrome, single-ventricle heart disease, additional procedures at the time of vein repair, mixed-type TAPVC, and preoperative obstruction. Having even mild preoperative obstruction (≥1.2 m/s by Doppler echocardiography) was predictive of postoperative obstruction. A multivariable model showed mixed-type TAPVC and the presence of preoperative obstruction were associated with a more than twofold greater hazard of obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

TAPVC in the setting of heterotaxy and a single ventricle remains challenging, with high rates of postoperative obstruction. Mixed-type TAPVC is an independent risk factor for postoperative obstruction, particularly in patients with isolated TAPVC. Even mild preoperative obstruction is a risk factor for postoperative obstruction. These results may help risk-stratify TAPVC patients.